The Union of Professional Educators (UPE) formally highlights that the Ministry of Education’s recently issued Circular PS 08/2025, titled “Communication with Media,” does not repeal or amend the contentious provisions of Circular DES 28/2024. Despite referencing older directives, the new circular avoids addressing core grievances raised, leaving restrictive measures intact.  

Under DES 28/2024, educators must seek prior written approval for media appearances, specifying topics and media outlets. Approved interactions are bound by “conformity restrictions,” prohibiting criticism of ministry policies, politically biased statements, opinion-sharing, or discussing non-educational societal issues. These rules severely limit educators’ rights to free expression and professional judgment.

Despite the new circular, DES 28/2024’s framework remains enforceable, perpetuating what the UPE calls a “history of restrictive treatment” by the ministry. The union urges the Education Commissioner to intervene, ensuring educators’ rights to civic participation without fear of reprisal.